90
Stylistically, this seemed a cross between old-school and modern Riojas.
The nose had dark fruit, but it was decidedly secondary to bramble, leather, vanilla, cloves, nutmeg, earthy tones and a slight charred wood smokiness.
On the palate, medium tannins and medium+ acid make for a decidedly food-friendly wine. The caramel/vanilla is front and centre, but not overpowering. Fruit includes cherry chutney, dark plum. Beautiful savoury finish.
Definitely worth aging.
Tasted November 2015
90
90
Lovely soft tannins…great value
90
Very nice and drinking beautifully. Great value under $20
90
April 2023
89
Very nice wine, great value
Tasted June 2015
89
88
This wine was just not what I wanted out of a bottle so highly rated. The flavours were muted, very woody and dry; almost as if it had aged a bit too long. Although very drinkable and pleasing in some ways I don't think it is worth a 90 (and by no means a 95 as rated in a competing publication).
